Markus Makur, Timika – Soldiers and police officers have been ordered to take strict action against any groups or parties that erect Papua's Bintang Kejora flags during the commemoration of Indonesia's 62nd Independence Day on Friday.
The order was made in response to reports circulating in Timika, the capital of Mimika regency. Bintang Kejora flags would be erected on Wednesday, Mimika military district commander Lt. Col. Trie Soeseno said Tuesday.
Soeseno said he was informed via a mobile text message that said certain groups would try to disturb the commemoration ceremony in Mimika. He said his subordinates were still investigating the reports.
"Anybody intending to hoist any flag aside from the Red and White ones will disturb the sovereignty of the Republic of Indonesia and the Indonesian Military (TNI) will take stern action against any disturbance in Papuan land," Soeseno said.
He said his command had deployed soldiers in a number of spots where disturbances frequently took place, including Mile 68 and Banti in Tembagapura district.
Soldiers assisted by the police would also intensify patrols ahead of and during the celebrations. "I urge the public not to be easily provoked by various groups to disrupt security in Mimika regency," he said.
Mimika Police chief Comr. Muhammad Yusuf said disturbances were predicted to occur ahead of the commemoration ceremony on Friday. The police had strengthened their patrol in both Timika and Mimika in general, he said.
Acting Mimika Regency Atanasius Allo Rafra said he was concerned about the unexpected bloody incidents in the regency, including the death of motorcyclist in Kwamki Lama, as well as brawls among supporters during a volleyball competition at Eme Neme Yauware field Sunday.
"I urge the public to take part in maintaining security to enable them to join celebrations happily," he said. A similar call was made by Mimika Legislative Council's speaker Yoseph Yopi Kilangin.
He asked the public to "not be easily attracted by dismal invitations". "All parties in Mimika regency have to work hand in hand to maintain security," he said.